Abstract
Issues on the basis of foundation design are discussed in conjunction with partial factor format, i. e. design approaches and the estimation of characteristic values of geotechnical parameters, for the future development of foundation design codes. First, it is examined which approach is more suitable for foundation design, material factor approach or resistance factor approach, and it is concluded that the later is better from the practical point of view. Second, a common procedure from a ground investigation/testing to the determination of design geotechnical parameters is proposed. The reliability of geotechnical investigation should be considered in the stage of the evaluation of characteristic values.
